DO YOU FOLLOW THE PATTERN?

The apostle Paul tells us plainly that his conversion experience was an example of all true conversions (I Tim. 1:16). Because his conversion is the pattern by which all conversions must be examined, it is recorded in great detail three times in the Book of Acts (9:1-22; 22:4-16; 26:9-19). If you and I are truly saved by the grace of God, we have experienced the same thing Paul experienced on the Damascus Road.

A DIVINE ELECTION (Acts 9:15) - Were there no election, there would be no salvation. We would not and could not choose the Lord, but he chose us, and his choice of us made certain that we would choose him (John 15:16). Election is the cause of faith, and faith in Christ is the fruit and proof of election.

A DIVINE REVELATION (Acts 9:3) - Paul was made to see the Lord Jesus Christ and the glory of God in him (Acts 22:14; II Cor. 4:6). He saw how that God could be both just and the Justifier of all who believe through the substitutionary sacrifice and blood atonement of the Lord Jesus Christ.

A DIVINE CALL (Acts 9:4-9) - Saul of Tarsus heard God's call! It was the irresistible call of grace. All the chosen, redeemed sheep of Christ, at the appointed time of love, hear his voice and follow him. The call of the Spirit that comes to chosen sinners by the preaching of the gospel is always effective (Psa. 65:4). It causes dead sinners to live and come to Christ. This is the pattern of all true conversions. Do you follow the pattern?

Donald S. Fortner, Pastor

GRACE BAPTIST CHURCH OF DANVILLE

2734 Old Stanford Road

Danville, Kentucky 40422

236-8235